The Muslim-majority Himalayan region of Kashmir has been divided between India and Pakistan since independence from Britain in 1947, but is claimed in full by both.

Attacks against Indian security forces have increased in recent months, although raids in the Hindu-majority Jammu area of the state are less common.

Indian and Pakistani cross-border firing along the heavily militarised Line of Control has intensified as tension between the nuclear-armed neighbours has risen.

Rise in tension

Kashmir has been gripped by protests since security forces killed a popular separatist leader in July. A crackdown in response to the protests has paralysed much of the region.

Indian security forces have also been accused of blocking medical treatment for wounded protesters in the disputed region by holding up ambulances and harassing hospitalised patients.

Physicians for Human Rights said not only did police and paramilitary forces use excessive force during months of unrest, they also hindered people from seeking medical attention, increasing the likelihood of permanent injuries and deaths.

"Such delays in care are violations of the long-standing protections afforded to medical workers and facilities in times of conflict and civil unrest," said Widney Brown from the New York-headquartered advocacy group.

"What's more, the doctors we interviewed said police were present in their hospitals, intimidating patients, and monitoring those being admitted."